About Amber S.

Award nominated singer-songwriter (wife and mom) with over 20 years experience available to teach eager students of all experience levels and ages! I structure my lessons so students learn what they want to learn, while also building a strong foundation of skills, focusing on self-expression and technique. I specialize in pop, folk, rock, blues and country styles. Let's have fun making music!

About Amber

I have been a performing singer-songwriter/graphic artist for 15+ years have written roughly 200 original songs, released several CDs and performed hundreds of shows. Music has been an important part of my life and has given me enormous amounts of joy and growth as an individual. Both of my parents are musicians and I was fortunate to have their support and guidance in addition to formal and informal training from various musicians over the years but mostly, I developed my style of playing from many hours of playing and experimenting. I am excited to have the opportunity to teach others the tools needed to start their own journey in music.

*** Lesson Details ***I am both easy going and goal oriented. I want my students to get the most out of their lessons and enjoy every minute.

I provide the syllabus & handouts needed initially

but will may assign a book after the first few lessons. Students should have an empty three-ring binder handy or iPad in addition to owning their own guitar or piano/keyboard. I recommend supporting local music stores before going to the big chains. I can help with choosing an instrument if needed.

Within 6 months*, the student should know and be able to play major and minor chords (instruments only), understand basic music notation, time signatures, and be able to follow basic sheet music. Students are encouraged to name songs that they wish to learn to keep them excited and interested in learning.

Amber S.

Amber S.

About Laurence B.

I am a highly qualified and experienced teacher, and adapt my approach and pace to the needs and personality of each student. I ensure they can read the notes they are playing so they can become independent musicians. I have proven success in taking students up to the top level of the ABRSM exams, and I am a member of the California Music Teachers Association. I teach either in English or French using both musical systems (do re mi or ABC).

About Laurence

I am a highly experienced and qualified piano teacher, teaching all ages and levels from beginner to advanced. I have proven success in taking students up to the top level of the ABRSM exams, and I am a member of the California Music Teachers Association.

I have been giving weekly individual piano and theory lessons for many years, presenting many for the ABRSM grade examinations. I also accompany high school choirs, and enjoy playing chamber music with the Arte Piano Trio. I am a enthusiastic pianist and enjoy sharing t

his passion with my students.

*** Lesson Details ***I am familiar with the major piano methods, but rather than slavishly following one method, I prefer to adapt my teaching approach and pace to the needs and personality of each student, using whatever material is best suited for them. I ensure my students can read the notes they are playing, and thoroughly understand the rhythms, so they can become independent musicians. I also emphasize playing musically, even at beginning level, so they can enjoy and understand the music immediately. My students also have the opportunity to play in student recitals twice per year.

I can teach in English or French, using either letter name notes or the solfege method (do re mi).

*** Specialties ***Classical piano (all periods) and chamber musicBroadway musicals and popular song musicI am specialized in preparing students for the internationally recognized ABRSM Grade exams.I am familiar with most popular piano methods such as Faber and Faber, Alfred, Denes Agays, John Thompson and Bastien, and Dozen a Day for technique, and use them when I feel it is appropriate for the particular student.

...

Reviews

Kurt February 16, 2018·Piano·In studio

Although it was only my first lesson with Laurence (of 10), I thorough enjoyed our meeting. I especially appreciate her understanding with some unexpected personal-life circumstances that delayed our initial lesson by several weeks.

I look forward to learning from her.

Carole Larsen February 16, 2017·Music Theory·In studio

Laurence has the skill set and knowledge which I need.

Beatrice B. February 11, 2016·Piano·In studio

Lessons are wonderful. Laurence is patient, and with simple exercises she is helping my playing become more spontaneous and smooth.

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Laurence B.

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Laurence B.

San Mateo, CA 94403

(5)

starting at

$38
/ 30-min

About Rhonda S.

I've been teaching piano for 10 years. Within the first few lessons students will be able to read basic music notation and as time goes on they will be able to confidently play beginning songs of their own choosing. I typically use Alfred or Faber books which builds playing skills and teaches music theory.

About Rhonda

I have always had a love for music. From all the music trivia games my family won't play with me, to my large collection of records, cassettes, and CDs - I am hooked!

I made my solo performance debut at age 7 by singing "It's A Small World" acapella in a school talent show. At age 9 I started taking clarinet lessons where I learned musicianship and how to read music. Throughout my school years I also sang in choir, played tenor saxophone in the school jazz band, and hoofed it in marching band.

During my first year in college I took a beginning guitar class for fun and I never looked back! I studied classical guitar for 3 years and piano for 2 years. I ultimately received a Minor in Music from California State University, Hayward in 1990.

I have been playing guitar for 27 years. I have played professionally in the San Franc

isco Bay Area in various rock, country, and blues bands as well as playing solo acoustic performances at local coffee houses.

I have been teaching private guitar lessons for 20 years and piano for 10.I like to keep learning fun! I am a very patient, compassionate teacher who will come up with creative ways to explain/demonstrate something new.

*** Lesson Details ***Music is the most fun activity that people of all ages can enjoy. And learning how to play music should be fun too! When students inquire about taking lessons from me I always ask, "What do you want to learn?" I try to keep students interested by showing them things they want to learn. I also believe in teaching the basics. Whether you want to take piano or guitar lessons I believe you should learn basic musicianship which includes learning to read simple notes and where those notes are on your instrument, rhythm concepts, and tempo. It's easier than you think! The more you know the more you can teach yourself later on, and the more you can collaborate with other musicians.

After 3 or 6 months of taking lessons with me, students will be able to read basic music notation. They will be able to play songs either by their choosing or mine, they will have self-confidence to play songs in front of an audience/friends, and they will have the knowledge to figure out how to play songs on their own.

*** Specialties ***I studied classical guitar at Cal State Hayward and have taught different finger picking styles as well as genres such as pop and country.

...

Reviews

Promila V. October 30, 2017·Piano·In studio

Rhonda’s teaching style is very easy to follow. She is very organized in teaching step by step which was very helpful for me. She really made me feel at ease and made me believe that I can learn this.
Thank you,
Promila

Kathleen June 2, 2017·Piano·In home

I have great experience w/ Rhonda on my first day to be with her. She's attentive to her students needs & concerns. Thanks Rhonda!

Sia K. March 22, 2017·Piano·In studio

She is very patient with students, organized, reviews the materials and most important makes sure that the students understands. She is fun living and a very sweet person.

Rhonda S.

Rhonda S.

About Alexandra P.

I teach beginning piano to students who are trying to learn musicianship for fun or for use in music theory or for help learning other instruments.

I also teach students for the CM and ABRSM exams and can teach serious classical music at any level when requested by parents.

I try to approach piano for young students in a fun manner so they will like to practice on their own while continuing to reach their goals.

I love to teach students of any age, but I specialize in teaching 4-12 year olds how to play.

I teach multiple subjects in the schools, as well, and I believe it is important to foster a child's growth of not just music but of learning any subject through what they learn in piano from finding patterns, focus, musical understanding and expression, through to time management. My goal is to get students to develop both their creative and their analytical abilities.

About Alexandra

Alexandra has been teaching harp and piano around the country for eighteen years through her personal harp studio and the Salvi Showroom in Southern California. She has also worked as a sectional coach for the Orange County Youth Symphony, Asia America Youth Symphony, and Palos Verdes Regional Symphony Orchestra. Her students are currently attending Eastman School of Music, Columbia University, Barnard College, Harvard University, Boston College, University of Pennslyvania, Princeton University, Northwestern University, University of Notre Dame, Yale University and Purdue University among others. Her students have also appeared on National television as well as playing for the Grammy Awards.

A strong supporter of the American Harp Society, she is Vice President of the American Harp Society Foundation. Alexandra is also co-chairman of

the distinguished Anne Adams Awards Harp Competition where she has been a main Director for fifteen years. She has served as the President of the Orange County Harp Society Chapter as well as a board member of the Bay Area Harp Society Chapter.

Alexandra received her Bachelor's Degree from DePauw University, majoring in Music and Anthropology. She also completed premedical studies at DePauw after spending her Junior year studying harp at the University of Oregon. She received her Master's Degree from Roosevelt University in Orchestral Studies, and did post graduate work at the University of Southern California in Harp Performance and Anthropology.

Alexandra has performed extensively throughout North America and Europe as a soloist, with small ensembles, and as an orchestral harpist. She has appeared in several television shows such as General Hospital. Her playing,"Is filled with care, artistry, and mature interpretation. She is a talented musician, well rounded in her knowledge of music, and has a healthy curiosity in areas beyond music." (Donald Chen, conductor) "Everything I heard was sensitive, artistic, and had beautiful intonation." (Richard Ferrin, violist emeritus, Chicago Symphony Orchestra).

In addition to playing, Alexandra has also served as the Ambassador for Salvi Harps in North America for the past eleven years. She has given numerous masterclasses and workshops in addition to performing at National Harp Conferences and National and Regional music showcases. In her role as National Sales Manager, she helped harpists from all over the world find their dream harps, learn to care for them, and has mentored them along the way.

Apart from harp activities, Alexandra also enjoys teaching middle school, teaching piano, coaching rowing, participation in sports activities, and writing articles for various journals including: The American Harp Journal, Chicago Health Magazine, and Atlanta Health Magazine. She also enjoys being a board member on the DePauw University Alumni Board and she enjoys working on music startup companies.

*** Lesson Details ***

As a HARP teacher, all of mystudents play scales, arpeggios, and technical exercises intheir lessons. I believe having a strong technical base is the foundation forevery part of playing and you can't learn without it. I will set the repertoirefor students according to their technical progress and although I maytake into consideration a student's desires to learn a certain piece, there hasto be time and they have to be ready for it. I have both short term and longterm goals for each student that involve theory, technical ability, andrepertoire: fun, orchestral and solo. Adult students still have to learntechnique, it makes things much more fun and easy six months later, I promise! Beginning students will learn how to read notes, understand basic theory, and technique in a short amount of time, so don't be scared if you have never had a music lesson before.

I require all students makeat least half an hour a day commitment to practice. I teach mostly the Grandjany method of harp technique, however, I also use Salzedo and Renie methodsat times to fit a particular students' build and unique physical attributes as well as what the piece requires. Ihave studied all techniques throughout my education and I find them allbeneficial for different reasons. I do, however, believe everyone is builtdifferently and the technique should help the harpist play and not hinder themfrom achieving their goals. Everyone learns at a different speed, but as abrand new musician, after six months practicing regularly, you should be ableto read music fluently, understand basic theory concepts, be able to play withboth hands and four fingers on each hand, play all of the basic scales andarpeggios musically and be able to play at least one piece memorized.Curriculum is based on the student's technical ability and issues and isindividually created – if you learn slower than someone else, don’t worry aboutyour pace. In the end, lessons are about you personally and not someone else.

As a PIANO teacher, I want students to learn about music and not just the piano. Students will learn basic music theory and basic scales as a part of their lessons. They will also occasionally choose a song of their choosing to work on chords. I do promote note reading and theory, so I am not the right teacher for students who don't want to invest time in learning the basics. These basics are the building blocks of all music and can be used for any instrument the student chooses to learn in the future.

*** Studio Equipment ***I have harps and a piano at my studio, so you do not need to bring your harp to lessons. If you don't own a harp, you can rent one for around $45/month from several sources.

*** Specialties ***HARP - Grandjany Technique with an incorporation of Salzedo and French school depending on the player's body type and technical difficulties. I make use of the ABRSM as well as local, national, and international competitions depending on the student's level of commitment.

PIANO - I teach basic piano for fun through an Intermediate level. Although some students choose to take CM and ABRSM exams, I do not push them. I want students to enjoy piano and music lessons.

...

Reviews

Patricia F. January 23, 2018·Piano·In studio

Great first lesson! Looking forward to next week.

christina March 9, 2016·Harp·Online

Alexandra was an excellent teacher! She really makes you feel at home even if you are nervous at the beginning… I look forward to taking more lessons from her

Carol M. September 30, 2015·Harp·In home

Alexandra was the most patient and caring teacher. She is very interested in going at the student's pace. She excelled my expatiations! Thank you Alexandra!

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Alexandra P.

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Alexandra P.

San Mateo, CA 94404

(13)

starting at

$40
/ 30-min

About Astrid C.

I can teach beginner to intermediate piano, which would include scales, proper fingering techniques, teaching to play with both hands together and even into modes and Jazz chords and jazz theory. I believe my students need to learn music theory along with piano, other wise they don't understand what they are doing. Plus it will help them in the future with music.

About Astrid

Teaching is my passion. Over the last few years I have worked with some amazing students of all ages. My youngest student was 2 years old and my oldest student is in her 70's and I absolutley love that! I have experience working with children with learning difficulties and students who get frustrated really easily. I love helping students fall in love with music, like I did growing up with my music teachers and professors. I am passionate about music and passionate about my students learning and excelling in their craft. I enjoy working with all ages and all types of music abilities. As a teacher I really push my students to understand music itself and spend time going over theory, which is super important. I would love to help you or your child grow and learn in their music abilities and hope to hear from you soon!

...

Reviews

Janice P. January 6, 2018·Piano·In home

Astrid is a great teacher. She is patient, clear, and works so well with my six year old daughter. I highly recommend her.

Astrid C.

Astrid C.

About Tom S.

I have wide experience of teaching piano especially to beginners and up to Intermediate Level and I also have great experience with people wishing to return to playing the piano after a break.I make the experience fun and enjoyable .I teach the piano using a variety of musical genres -including classical, popular music and Jazz..We have lots of fun in my lessons, but we make good, consistent progress too.

About Tom

I am a very experienced and fully qualified music and instrumental teacher, with over 30 years of experience. I am a experienced performer in both playing, singing and conducting too. Making and very importantly enjoying music is my passion.

I have taught brass instruments right through from beginners to pupils at music college.

I also teach music theory, music history and some composition and arranging. I also play and teach the piano

I am also a very experienced teacher of pupils with Special Education issues

Whether you want to study music seriously or just for fun , I am the teacher for you.I promise you stimulating and enjoyable lessons, but I will also help you make good and rapid progress.

...

Reviews

Suzy January 27, 2018·Piano·In studio

Our son has been taking piano lessons from Tom for a year and it has made a huge difference. Tom is very knowledgeable, personable, and has lots of patience for my inquistive 8 years old!

Kelly M. January 19, 2018·Piano·In studio

Tom has been a wonderful piano teacher for our two children. He is patient & helps them progress at a steady rate. He makes learning fun while ensuring they have good technique and understanding at each level. My son hadn’t enjoyed lessons from past instructors, but now looks forward to his lessons with Tom.

Wendell January 18, 2018·Piano·In studio

I've been taking lessons with Tom for almost 2 years. I can't imagine a better instructor. He's very knowledgeable, friendly, extremely patient, and passionate about music. Our weekly lessons keep me motivated and on track. Thanks so much, Tom!!

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Tom S.

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Tom S.

Walnut Creek, CA 94598

(11)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Rebecca K.

Patience, support and practice are the only things required to play the piano. I can help with all of them!

About Rebecca

Hello! I am a classically trained vocalist and percussionist, with a BA in Music, specializing in Education and Theory. I have taught band, choir, orchestra and piano in high school and middle school. I have also done Music Directing with kids aged 7-14 for various musicals and have taught elementary students aged 4-9, so I am ready for whatever you've got! I have also appeared on stage in various settings including opera, musical theater, solo work and even the occasional karaoke night. I am willing to work with your schedule and offer scholarships to those who are willing to earn them!

...

Reviews

Maria February 7, 2018·Bassoon·In home

Rebecca is an amazing person and one of the best teacher my son has ever had. She very knowledgeable about music. Rebecca tough him to play the bassoon, and my son has preformed in more than 4 concerts within 7 months period, Rebecca really made a difference in my child performance. She is reliable, very responsible, she always go the extra mile for her students. I highly recommend her as a music teacher.

DeJaiyah December 18, 2017·Piano·In studio

Very good with kids. Loved the whole experience

Kim Ho December 13, 2017·Singing·Online

Always Amazing!

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Rebecca K.

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Rebecca K.

Vallejo, CA 94590

(29)

starting at

$20
/ 30-min

About Sherman N.

I expected that you will put in effort. I hope that you all can learn to enjoy and appreciate the learning process. Mostly lessons consists of learning the keys of the piano, scales, and beginning piano pieces.

About Sherman

I'm a high school student and musician. I've played piano for about 13 years and this is my best opportunity to help other young aspiring musicians. I passed the Grade 8 Piano Exam for ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) and I'm currently prepping for the Diploma test for ABRSM. I am planning to take music as a major in college and possibly become a music teacher in the future.

I will do my best to help the young kids to find their love and passion and music and help them stay committed to it.

...

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Sherman N.

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Sherman N.

Mill Valley, CA 94941

starting at

$20
/ 30-min

About Loralee W.

I teach music from the perspective of a modern musician and a songwriter. I want to make sure you are relaxed and having fun, as well as learning everything you want to learn in these lessons! We will get you playing songs you enjoy, right from the start. The most important thing to me, is for my students to have fun during their lessons, because real learning comes from commitment, and commitment comes much easier when you enjoy what you do.

About Loralee

Loralee began exploring music at a very young age, as part of a musical household. She enrolled in flute lessons at the age of 4, giving her solid roots in music theory and an appreciation for classical music. Her flute lessons later led her to take part in marching band and numerous musical ensembles. Aside from her love of music, 15 years of performing and studying dance led her to discover her joy in teaching when she began to teach creative movement and ballet to young dancers. In college, she began learning guitar and writing music to match a growing passion for songwriting and acoustic folk music. Her musical pursuits led her to join a local alt pop/punk band as a vocalist, and she performed with them in the surrounding area. After graduating with a B.A. at Michigan State University, Loralee began to pursue a career as a solo musici

an, and released a 4 song EP “If You Were a Song”. Now, she has written hundreds of songs and performs her original music in the San Francisco area.

...

Reviews

Lucien G. February 15, 2018·Piano·In studio

Loralee is wonderful, patient and a great teacher. I look forward to seeing my kids grow under her tutelage.

Anna M. January 12, 2018·Piano·Online

Very sweet and engaging -- a perfect fit for my 6 year old daughter :)

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Loralee W.

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Loralee W.

San Rafael, CA 94901

(2)

starting at

$17
/ 30-min

About Audrey Z.

I have been playing classical piano since I was three and a half years old, and have taught students of all ages and levels since I was fifteen. I was awarded the Associate of the Royal Conservatory diploma for Performers at age 17, the highest academic standing awarded by the Royal Conservatory of Music. I have studied music theory, including harmony, counterpoint, music history, and music analysis. I have also performed in benefit concerts, competed in a large number of contests, and collaborated with other musicians in a variety of ensembles.

I'm a very easygoing instructor and am very flexible about meeting my students' needs. I've studied under instructors with a wide variety of teaching skills, and can adapt my own teaching skill to suit the preferences of my students. I absolutely love the piano and really enjoy sharing my passion with others. Please let me know if you have any questions!

About Audrey

I have been playing piano for 20 years, and am certified as an Associate of the Royal Conservatory (ARCT) professional performer by the Royal Conservatory of Music.

My classical piano training not only involved playing the piano, but also involved music theory, music history, music analysis, and ear training. I can provide a comprehensive instruction experience that is specifically designed for every student's level and goals.

I am a very easygoing and supportive instructor, and am very flexible about meeting my student's needs and preferences. I would love to mentor students who share my passion for classical piano music!

"My first lesson went very well. David has a lot of patience which I appreciate."

San Francisco, CA teacher:
David W.

Review by Kathleen

"I have great experience w/ Rhonda on my first day to be with her. She's attentive to her students needs & concerns. Thanks Rhonda!"

San Francisco, CA teacher:
Rhonda S.

Review by Mo

"5 stars' teacher"

San Francisco, CA teacher:
Lella L.

Review by Louise Comfort

"I found Peter to be very intelligent and very knowledgeable. Peter was great in not only classical styles of playing but also jazz which really kept me en

gaged! I especially liked the way he taught music theory alongside some of the standard learning points like scales and such. Overall I had a delightful experience with this teacher. If Peter ever moves back to my area I would love to take lessons with him again!"

...

San Francisco, CA teacher:
Peter D.

Review by Jerry

"Very good. Right pace and understanding"

San Francisco, CA teacher:
Donna D.

Review by Lillian Espanola

"Rhonda is very patient with my nephew Davis who has special needs. She is very friendly and makes him feel comfortable and at ease. She is helping him to

to play easy classical pieces and introducing music theory in a way that he can understand. She's awesome!"

...

San Francisco, CA teacher:
Rhonda S.

Review by David

"She is very patient and kind. She also has pets."

San Francisco, CA teacher:
Rhonda S.

And they're not alone!

Our teachers have taught

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3
0
1 ,
6
1
2

lessons and counting!

Free Piano Lessons withan Expert Teacher

Learn how to play the piano in these video tutorials from a professional piano teacher!

Have you always wanted to play the piano?
We’re here to help! Get started with these 20 video tutorials hosted by San Diego, CA
piano teacher Jordan M, one of our expert instructors with TakeLessons.com.
In this free video series, you’ll get an introduction to the instrument and learn a few
easy exercises to get you reading music and understanding rhythm!

Video #1: Intro to the Piano

Intro to the Piano: Learn about the parts of the piano and how to find the
all-important Middle C.

Video #2: Piano Basics

Learn about proper posture, hand placement, and other beginner essentials.

Video #3: Reading Piano Notes

Learn about the treble and bass clefs, and tips for remembering the notes on the piano.

Video #4: Time and Key Signatures

Learn what all those sharps and flats really mean, and how to decode your music.

Video #5: Understanding Rhythm

Follow along to master quarter notes, quarter rests, and half rests.

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